Strong & Awake

Season 2, Episode 6 | “Course correction isn’t bad news—it’s the work. It’s the ongoing practice of staying awake and adjusting along the way.”

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch explore the concept of course-correction and the inner dialogue that often holds us back. They discuss the importance of waking up, practicing with intention, and knowing your purpose. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they emphasize the necessity of voluntary discomfort in achieving a fulfilling life. The conversation examines the critical role of self-awareness, the pitfalls of perfectionism, and the value of community in personal growth. Tune in to learn how to quiet your inner critic, embrace the process, and correct course towards becoming strong and awake for love's sake.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:25 Managing Inner Voices
• 04:32 The Importance of Course Correction
• 06:37 Embodied Practice and Reps
• 12:05 Navigating Life’s Complexities
• 24:49 Course Correction in Work and Life
• 31:29 The Power of Community

Mentions:

• Tim Gallwey: Author of "The Inner Game of Tennis," which discusses the concept of two selves, self number one (the ego self) and self number two (the doing self).
• Scott Peck: Mentioned for his quote "Life is hard," highlighting the challenges of navigating life.
• Roger Federer: Used as an example of a professional athlete who maintains composure and presence in the game.
• Vincent van Gogh: Referenced for his dedication to his work despite only selling one painting in his lifetime.
• Plato's Cave: Mentioned in the context of people being unaware of the broader reality outside their immediate experience.

Anchor Actions:

1. Morning Rituals for Awakening: Start your day with intentional activities that ground you and set a positive tone. Consider incorporating practices like cold showers, breath work, journaling, or prayer. Avoid checking messages or social media first thing in the morning to maintain control over your day.
2. Midday Recalibration: Identify a time in your day, such as mid-afternoon, when you typically feel tired or distracted. Use this time to engage in activities that wake you up and refocus your energy. This could be a quick walk, stretching, or even a brief meditation session.
3. End-of-Day Reflection: Establish a nightly routine that helps you wind down and reflect on your day. This could include activities like stretching, journaling about your day’s accomplishments and learnings, or practicing gratitude. Aim to create a consistent sleep routine that ensures you get enough rest for the next day.

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2026 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)

Season 2, Episode 5 | "Are You Prioritizing Comfort Over Profit in Your Life?"

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch tackle the insidious nature of comfort and its impact on our lives. They explore how our craving for convenience often leads to unprofitable decisions and how prioritizing voluntary discomfort can yield significant returns. Using the metaphor of profit in business, they discuss the importance of making hard choices and embracing discomfort to achieve a more fulfilling life. From personal anecdotes about financial decisions to practical advice on fitness and nutrition, this episode is a call to action to prioritize profit in every aspect of life. Join the conversation and learn how to make the uncomfortable choices that lead to true growth and satisfaction.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:31 Prioritizing Profit in Life
• 05:17 Avoiding Common Pitfalls
• 09:15 The Role of Discipline and Consistency
• 18:24 Embracing Discomfort for Growth
• 25:06 Auditing Our Life

Mentions:

• Dave Ramsey: Mentioned in the context of financial advice, particularly about paying off debt and making profitable financial decisions.
• Annie Duke: Referenced for her ideas on decision-making, specifically viewing decisions as bets to increase the likelihood of success.
• Mark Page: Dane's pastor, acknowledged for his influence and modeling of the principles discussed in the podcast.
• CrossFit: Mentioned in the context of physical discomfort and the benefits of shared suffering in building strong relationships.

Anchor Actions:

1. Audit Your Life for Profit: Start by auditing different categories of your life such as friends, family, finances, and habits. Identify which relationships and activities leave you feeling enriched and which ones drain you. Aim to increase the former and reduce the latter. This is about making conscious choices that prioritize a profitable return on your life.
2. Set a Minimal Viable Practice: Whether it's in the gym or the kitchen, begin with a minimal viable practice that you can sustain over the long haul. Focus on consistency rather than intensity. For example, commit to a daily 10-minute workout or a simple, healthy meal plan. The key is to build a foundation that you can grow from, ensuring you don't miss a day.
3. Simplify and Reduce Optionality: Just like businesses simplify their menu to reduce complexity and improve focus, do the same in your life. Eliminate unnecessary choices and distractions. This could mean cutting down on subscriptions, decluttering your living space, or streamlining your daily routines. The goal is to create more mental and physical space for what truly matters, making it easier to prioritize profit in every decision.

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2026 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)

Season 2, Episode 4 | "We're so used to being consumers, we're consumed, and we think it's normal. Freedom is to release."

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch explore the concept of "Traveling Light". They discuss how overpacking—whether it's physical items for a trip or emotional and mental burdens—can weigh us down and distract us from what truly matters. They emphasize the importance of making conscious choices to carry only what you need and the profound freedom that comes from letting go of excess of all kinds. By front-loading the effort to decide what is essential, you can engage more fully with your reality and experience a more fulfilling life. Join the conversation to learn practical steps for decluttering your life and mind, and discover the power of voluntary discomfort in achieving true freedom.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 04:02 Anchors to Reality
• 09:43 Have What You Need
• 12:36 The Burden of Mental and Emotional Weight
• 21:32 Backwards Strategies
• 24:56 Limiting Optionality for Greater Freedom
• 31:23 Action Steps for Traveling Light
• 35:49 The Importance of Community

Mentions:

• Second Law of Thermodynamics: Mentioned in the context of entropy and energy dissipation.
• Stoicism: Referenced in relation to controlling one's response to events.
• Parkinson's Law: The adage that "work expands to fill the time available for its completion."
• Marie Kondo: Referenced for her method of decluttering
• Annie Leonard: Creator of the documentary "The Story of Stuff," which discusses consumerism and its environmental impact.
• Amazon: Mentioned in the context of consumer habits and the ease of acquiring goods.
• Greg McKeown: Author of "Essentialism," a book about focusing on what is truly essential.
• Ryan O'Neal (Sleeping at Last): Musician known for using creative constraints in his work.

Anchor Actions:

1. Simplify Your Environment: Start with one area of your life, such as your workspace or a junk drawer. Remove everything from that space, and only put back what you absolutely need. Donate, recycle, or throw away the rest. This physical act of decluttering can lead to mental clarity and a sense of freedom.

2. Identify and Release Mental Burdens: Take a "mental inventory" while on a walk or during a quiet moment. Identify unresolved issues or relationships weighing you down. Commit to one action to address each burden, such as making a phone call, writing a letter, or having a necessary conversation.

3. Adopt an Essentialist Approach to Daily Decisions: For the next week, consciously limit your choices. Use a smaller bag, reduce your wardrobe to a capsule collection, or set strict limits on daily tasks. Notice how fewer options can lead to greater focus and satisfaction.

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2026 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)

Season 2, Episode 3 | "Fueling first is not just a nice-to-have thing, it's mission critical."

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch challenge the myth of invincibility and the dangers of running on empty. They explore the critical importance of "fueling first" in our daily lives. Just as we maintain and fuel our cars, we must consider how our lack of fuel is impacting our own energy and well-being. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they emphasize the necessity of proactive self-care and the pitfalls of waiting until the last minute to refuel. This episode is a call to action to adopt daily habits that make up a practice, ensuring we are operating at our best, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall performance. Tune in to discover how small, consistent actions (often uncomfortable) can lead to significant, long-term benefits.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:27 Fueling Your Car and The Cost of Running on Empty
• 07:28 The Advantage of Fueling First
• 09:10 Performance Benefits of Fueling First
• 15:45 Scarcity vs. Abundance Mindset
• 19:13 Shifting from Reactive to Proactive Living
• 24:17 Practical Tips for Fueling First Daily
• 27:14 Expanding Beyond Daily Routines
• 31:26 Reflecting and Adjusting Your Fueling Habits
• 33:08 Embracing Curiosity and Taking Action

Mentions:

• James Clear: Author of "Atomic Habits," mentioned for his idea that every action is a vote for who you are becoming.
• Kobe Bryant: Late basketball player, mentioned for his shift in professional nutrition and overall approach to being a professional athlete.

Anchor Actions:

1. Fuel First Every Day:

Commit to starting each day by fueling yourself both physically and mentally. This includes getting enough sleep (aim for 7+ hours), hydrating (96 ounces of water daily), and engaging in morning routines that wake you up and ground you, such as cold showers or breath work. Make this a non-negotiable part of your daily practice.

2. Proactively Manage Your Energy:

Identify key moments in your day when your energy typically dips and plan proactive measures to refuel. This could involve movement breaks, breath work, or adjusting the timing of your workouts. Ensure you sustain your energy throughout the day by integrating these practices consistently.

3. Reflect and Plan Nightly:

Establish a nightly routine where you reflect on your day, assess your performance, and plan for the next day. This could include journaling, setting goals, and coordinating with family or household members to ensure a smooth transition into the next day. This practice helps maintain a full tank and reduces anxiety.

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2026 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)

Season 2, Episode 2 | "Are you playing the role, or is the role playing you?"

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch explore the four archetypical roles we all play in life: victim, hero, guide, and rescuer. They discuss how recognizing and choosing these roles can transform your life. From pickleball to the literature we consume, this episode challenges you to wake up to the roles you're playing and choose the path of voluntary discomfort to achieve true transformation. Join us as we explore the second anchor of the series, Choose Your Role.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:22 Pickleball and the Roles We Play
• 10:12 The Four Roles
• 15:38 Symptoms of the Role We are Playing
• 17:50 Moving Beyond Victimhood
• 26:39 Invitation & Identification
• 32:02 Transformation is Hard

Mentions:

• Donald Miller: Mentioned in the context of his work with StoryBrand and his book "Hero on a Mission".
• Joseph Campbell: Referenced for his work "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" and the concept of the hero's journey.
• Matthew Dicks: Mentioned for his storytelling principles.
• Dan Allender: Psychologist known for his work with adults who were sexually molested as children. Mentioned for his unique therapeutic approach.
• Tim Krueger: Co-founder of MWOD and mentioned in a story about his parenting approach.
• Seth Godin: Referenced for his quote, "People like us do things like this."
• Luke Skywalker, Obi Wan Kenobi, Yoda: Characters from "Star Wars" used to illustrate the hero's journey and the roles of victim, guide, and hero.

Anchor Actions:

1. Identify Your Role: Take a moment to reflect on the role you're currently playing in different aspects of your life in any given moment. Are you acting as a victim, hero, guide, or rescuer? Acknowledge this without judgment and ask yourself if this is the role you want to play or if it's the role your future self would be proud of.
2. Seek Voluntary Discomfort: Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone purposefully. Whether it's taking on a new sport like pickleball, tackling a difficult project at work, or having a tough conversation, choose the harder path that requires effort and growth. Remember, transformation happens through overcoming challenges, not by drifting in comfort.
3. Ask for Constructive Guidance: If you find yourself stuck in a victim or rescuer role, reach out to someone who has navigated similar challenges. Instead of seeking someone to solve your problems, look for a guide who can offer insights and direction while allowing you to do the work. This approach fosters personal growth and self-reliance.

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2026 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)

Season 2, Episode 1 | Introducing Season 2: Anchors

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch challenge the pervasive mindset of "have to" and invite listeners to trade that for "get to." They explore how reframing daily chores and responsibilities as opportunities can radically shift your perspective and enhance your life. From parenting and marriage to work and mundane tasks, this simple yet profound shift can turn burdens into opportunities. Through personal anecdotes and practical examples, they invite you to experiment with this mindset and discover its potential to ground you in the present and align you with your true self. Tune in to learn how to anchor yourself amidst life's storms and embrace the power of voluntary discomfort.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:24 Season Overview
• 12:07 Get To vs. Have To vs. Want To 
• 16:55 Not Just a Mindset Shift… It’s Reality
• 19:32 Relating with Difficult Experiences
• 23:40 The Gift of “Get To”
• 26:23 Opportunity

Mentions:

• Dan Tocchini: Mentioned as a mentor of Dane Sanders in transformational work and the first person Dane heard the concept of "get to" from.
• Seth Godin: Mentioned as another person who has referenced the concept of "get to".
• Tim Krueger (Co-founder of Men and Women of Discomfort): Mentioned as Dane’s co-founder who passed away from stomach cancer and used the "get to" mindset during his treatment.
• Proverb about Pushing Rocks: Used as a metaphor to illustrate the difference between seeing tasks as a burden ("have to") versus an opportunity ("get to").

Anchor Actions:

• Reframe “Chores” as Opportunities: Experiment with viewing everything from the mundane tasks to important roles in your life—parenting, marriage, work, and domestic chores—as opportunities rather than burdens. 
• Use 'Get To' Instead of 'Have To': Simply replace the phrase "I have to" with "I get to" in your daily language. For example, instead of saying, "I have to take out the trash," say, "I get to take out the trash, which keeps my home clean and pleasant." This subtle change can significantly alter your mindset and anchor you to the reality of your situation.
• Anchor in the Present Moment: When you feel overwhelmed or angry, use the concept of anchors to ground yourself. Acknowledge your current emotions and use them as a signal to slow down and regain perspective. This practice can help you navigate through challenging moments more effectively.

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2026 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)

Episode 19 | Are you stuck in a decision-making paralysis, afraid to make the wrong move?

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch tackle the universal struggle of making tough decisions. They break down a practical process to help you move from indecision to action, whether it's about your job, relationships, or any significant life choice. Discover how to identify your current status quo, evaluate past attempts, and assess new opportunities with clarity. By embracing voluntary discomfort and making informed bets, you can break free from the cycle of hesitation and step confidently into becoming the person you want to be. Join us and learn how to make decisions that propel you forward, even if it means taking the uncomfortable path.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:23 The Weight of Decision Fatigue
• 06:49 Establishing Your Current Reality
• 09:22 Envisioning a New Reality
• 13:54 What Have You Tried Before Now?
• 16:34 Why didn’t it Work? How is this Different?
• 21:50 Make a Decision

Mentions:

• Annie Duke: Mentioned as a professional poker player who discusses decision-making as bets with incomplete data.
• Søren Kierkegaard: Referenced for his quote, "Man finds the level of despair he can tolerate and calls it happiness."
• Derek Sivers: Mentioned for popularizing the idea that decisions should be a "hell yeah or no."
• Billy Broas and Tiago Forte: Mentioned for their book "Simple Marketing for Smart People," which discusses the contrast between the current situation and desired outcomes.

Anchor Actions:

1. Clarify Your Status Quo: Take a piece of paper and write down your current situation in detail. Whether it's your job, relationship, or any other aspect of your life, list out what you have right now. This exercise will help you understand your starting point and what exactly you might want to change.

2. Evaluate Past Efforts: Reflect on what you have tried before to address your dissatisfaction. Identify why those efforts didn't work. Was it a lack of commitment, wrong strategy, or external factors? Understanding this will help you avoid repeating the same mistakes and recognize patterns in your behavior.

3. Justify the New Option: Clearly articulate what is different about the new option you are considering. Why do you believe this will succeed where previous attempts have failed? This step is crucial to ensure that you are not just moving the furniture around on the deck of the Titanic but making a meaningful change.

4. Make a Decision

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2026 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)

Episode 18 | Humans who don't have the ability to delay gratification are stunted in their growth for the rest of their life.

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch tackle the pervasive allure of "shiny and new" distractions that derail our focus and growth. They share personal stories and practical strategies to combat the constant pull of immediate gratification. By acknowledging the ever-present temptations, setting up our environments for success, and leveraging community support, we can make deliberate choices that align with our long-term goals. 

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 03:33 The Trap of Shiny and New
• 15:08 Signals and Surges
• 18:50 Decisive Action Against Distractions
• 26:54 Perspective: The Nature of Things
• 28:53 People: The Power of Community
• 31:01 Practice: Building Your Rule of Life
• 34:19 Patience: Playing the Long Game
• 38:51 True Ease and Deep Comfort

Mentions:

• Eugene Peterson: Christian writer known for "The Message," a contemporary translation of the Bible.
• Marcus Aurelius: Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, author of "Meditations."
• Russell Brand: Comedian and author of many books on recovery and addiction.
• Andy Crouch: Author who discusses putting things in their proper place.
• Seth Godin: Author and speaker, mentioned for his talk on human potential and the concept of "people like us do things like this."
• M. Scott Peck: Psychiatrist and author of "The Road Less Traveled" and "People of the Lie," known for his insights on delayed gratification.
• The Eisenhower Matrix: A time management tool that categorizes tasks into four quadrants based on urgency and importance.

Anchor Actions:

1. Anticipate and Acknowledge Temptations:

Before starting your day, acknowledge that distractions and temptations will arise. Recognize the "shiny and new" items and interruptions that will try to pull you away from your goals. By anticipating these distractions, you prepare yourself mentally to resist them.

2. Create a Delay Gratification Strategy:

Implement strategies to delay gratification. For example, set specific times to check emails or open packages. Place notifications on silent or use apps that temporarily block distracting websites. This helps you stay focused on tasks that align with your long-term goals.

3. Community:

Surround yourself with a community that shares your values and goals. Engage with people who care and hold the tension of support and challenge. Whether it’s through a group like MWOD or a close-knit circle of friends, having a community helps reinforce your commitment to choosing the hard but rewarding path.

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2026 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)

Episode 17 | The Leaky Bucket of Accountability

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch challenge the conventional wisdom around accountability. They argue that relying on others to hold us accountable is a way to dodge responsibility and set ourselves up for failure. Instead, they advocate for a practice of self-accountability that starts with creating and holding space for self-reflection— which can be done in community. They outline a process of committing to new behaviors, releasing old habits, and embracing the discomfort that leads to real change. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they invite listeners to take ownership of their growth and transformation. Don't just listen—take action and start holding yourself accountable today.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:23 The Accountability Partner Myth
• 04:08 Why Isn't it Working?
• 07:11 Creating and Holding Space
• 13:29 Daily Practices for Grounding
• 18:20 True Repentance and Commitment
• 21:04 The CREDO Framework
• 25:04 Accountability in Community
• 32:37 Taking Action

Mentions:

• Jerzy Gregorek: Quoted for the saying "Hard choices, easy life. Easy choices, hard life."
• "The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg: Referenced in the context of understanding habits.
• "Atomic Habits" by James Clear: Referenced in the context of understanding habits.
• Accountability: Discussed extensively, particularly the idea that self-accountability is more effective than relying on others to hold you accountable.
• Creating and Holding Space: The practice of creating a mental and emotional space to reflect and account for one's actions.
• Repentance: Described as a model for course correction, involving stopping, turning around, and moving in a new direction.
• Fess Up Fridays: A practice within MWOD where members reflect on their commitments, hold account for where they missed the mark, what they learned, and what they will do differently.
• CREDO Framework: A model for personal change involving Commit, Release, Embrace, Define, and Own stages.
• Ownership and Agency: Emphasized as critical for personal development and accountability.
• ItsProbablyNotForYou.com - Check it out!

Anchor Actions:

Self-Accountability Check-In: Every week, take a moment to reflect on three key points:

1. What goal did you set, and where did you fall short?
2. What did you learn about yourself in the process?
3. What specific action will you take to correct your course and move forward?

Create and Hold Space for Reflection:

• Dedicate a daily practice to create and hold space for yourself. This could involve a cold shower to wake up, a few minutes of breath-holding to center yourself, and journaling to process your thoughts. This routine helps you slow down, reflect on your actions, and prepare for the day with clarity.

Commit to a New Direction:

• When you identify a behavior or habit you want to change, make a clear commitment to a new course of action. Understand that you will face resistance and the urge to revert to old habits. Embrace the discomfort, release your preferences, and consistently practice the new behavior until it becomes a natural part of your routine.

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

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Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2026 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)

Episode 16 | "Is taking care of yourself selfish?"

This episode of Strong & Awake challenges the conventional wisdom around self-care and personal growth. Dane and Mitch explore the paradox of self-improvement, questioning whether focusing on oneself is inherently selfish or if it can serve a greater purpose. They discuss the tension between self-care and serving others, emphasizing that true growth often comes from voluntary discomfort. Through real-life examples and community insights, they reveal how building a personal practice not only benefits the individual but also strengthens their ability to support and uplift those around them. Join the conversation and discover how to navigate the complexities of personal development in a way that enriches both your life and the lives of others.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 02:14 The Nurturer's Dilemma
• 05:17 Impact on Others: Both Sides
• 07:20 Two Motivations
• 09:31 The Paradox of Self-Care
• 14:19 Tensions to be Managed
• 16:47 Navigating Social Discomfort
• 19:53 We All Have a Practice
• 23:00 Change is Disruptive
• 25:58 When They Need Us
• 27:37 Commitment in Community

Mentions:

• Soren Kierkegaard: Quoted with "Man finds a level of despair he can tolerate and he calls it happiness."
• Alex Honnold: Mentioned as an example of someone with a rigorous practice, known for his free solo climbing.

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2026 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)